A fatal train crash in the Mexican state of Oaxaca has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people, an incident sure to fuel opposition criticisms regarding the pace and execution of the country's flagship infrastructure initiatives.
The disaster happened on the Interoceanic Train, a route built to join the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean across the thinnest stretch of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This initiative was created to provide an competing rail corridor to the Panama Canal, intended to promote commercial progress in the area.
“We are going to thoroughly investigate what caused this incident,” declared the head of state.
The president announced that, of the some 250 people on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in grave condition. The leader noted plans to visit Oaxaca to speak with those impacted.
Major Initiative of Former Government
The Interoceanic Train was a signature infrastructure project of the previous administration, whose time in office concluded the prior year. This project was intimately linked to his government's economic vision for the southern region.
Another multi-billion dollar rail project from that era, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also central to the broader strategy to stimulate the economy of a comparatively less developed part of the country.
Building Management and Worries
The construction of both train projects was managed by the nation's military, marking a dramatic growth of its duties in civilian works. They were executed at an rapid rate, surpassing forecasts to be at least partly opened before the end of that administration.
However, this accelerated timeline had also raised ongoing questions over operational security.
- Sunday's derailment was the third occurrence on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This includes an earlier accident this month when a train hit a truck at a level crossing.
- The other major rail project has also experienced several non-lethal derailments.
Appeals for Review and Suspension
In the wake of the disaster, the chief of a primary political opposition demanded an immediate suspension in the construction and operation of all such projects.
This pause was requested until the completion of a comprehensive independent investigation. The party stated that the tragedy "requires swift accountability."
In response, the head of state asserted that the train had been operating in complete accordance with all security protocols. Promises were given that the government would remain "responsible" in both the construction and operation of these strategic initiatives.